Teboho Mokoena urges Mamelodi Sundowns to match Sekhukhune United’s hunger in crucial league clash

Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Teboho Mokoena has asked his side to show up against a hungry Sekhukhune United outfit when the two sides clash in the Betway Premiership on Tuesday evening at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium (7.30pm kick-off).

With the league having just resumed, there has been little time to ease back into rhythm, and the stakes are already high. Few fixtures will carry as much significance at this stage of the season, with momentum, confidence and the title race all firmly in play.

The Brazilians come into the clash fresh from a draining Caf Champions League encounter against Al Hilal. Despite enjoying home advantage, they were unable to make it count. While they avoided defeat against the Sudanese giants, the draw felt like a missed opportunity in a match they should have won.

Domestically, Sundowns (29) currently sit top of the Premiership standings, level on points with second-placed Orlando Pirates but having played a game more.

Their focus now turns to a confident Babina Noko side, buoyed by a goalless draw against the Bucaneers over the weekend. That result means Sekhukhune have taken four points from the Soweto giants this season, and they will head into Tuesday’s clash full of belief, particularly at home where they have so far lost just once all campaign.

Sundowns recently resumed their pursuit of a record-extending ninth successive league title and an 18th overall crown with a convincing 2–0 victory over newcomers Orbit College last week.

However, that win has done little to quiet growing speculation around head coach Miguel Cardoso’s future, with persistent rumours linking former mentor Pitso Mosimane to a sensational return.

For much of the season, Cardoso has found himself under intense scrutiny, repeatedly having to defend both his methods and his team’s performances. Discontent among sections of the club’s faithful has been evident, with criticism aimed at his style of play and leadership.

Tensions boiled over at Loftus Versfeld on Friday night as both Cardoso and sporting director Flemming Berg reportedly required escorting from the stadium amid angry scenes involving supporters.

Such unrest has become an uncomfortable theme for Sundowns this season. While results have been inconsistent, the greater concern has been the apparent loss of identity and the fear factor that once made the Pretoria giants so formidable.

Tuesday’s trip to Sekhukhune offers an opportunity to steady the ship, build momentum, and ease some of the mounting pressure, while playing on the road could even play to Sundowns’ advantage.

Beyond maintaining their grip on top spot and keeping Pirates at bay, consistency will be vital as they prepare to travel to Rwanda for Friday’s Champions League return leg against Al Hilal, and Mokoena has asked his side to pitch up on the night to secure a favourable result.

“We are excited and looking forward to the game,” Mokoena said ahead of the Tuesday clash. 

“We know that it’s an important game and also for the morale of the team, as that will help us going into the Champions League game. Both teams will be motivated, and Sekhukhune played well against Pirates. 

“They are a good side and it won’t be an easy game for us, but if we can show up and match their hunger with our qualities, we can come out on top.”

On paper, recent head-to-head history strongly favours the Brazilians. However, Sekhukhune coach Eric Tinkler will draw confidence from his side’s victories over both Soweto giants earlier this season.

He knows his team can rise to the occasion in high-pressure matches, though consistency against all opponents remains an area he has openly challenged his players to improve. 

With uncertainty lingering in the Brazilians’ camp, this fixture could present Babina Noko with a golden opportunity to make a significant statement in the title race against a direct title rival.